How Is Ireland Governed?

How Ireland is Governed is now in its sixth edition. First published in 1965, it rapidly established itself as the first and simplest source for basic information about every aspect of Irish government. The book concisely describes the institutions of Irish government and how they work: Constitution, Presidency, Oireachtas, government, civil service, local authorities, judiciary, defence forces and Garda Siochana. The functions of advisory bodies and state-sponsored bodies are explained, and there are chapters on international organisations and Northern Ireland. The contents of every chapter of this latest edition have been checked and updated by experts, usually in the government departments concerned. The speed of development of Irish institutions has meant that some chapters have been totally rewritten. How Ireland is Governed is a standard reference for civics teachers and students in schools and colleges. It has also proved invaluable to public servants, journalists and others who need ready access to reliable background information. James D. O'Donnell is a Deputy Assistant Director in the Institute of Public Administration. Among his duties is the management of the Institute's periodical and book publishing programmes.